Briana and Paul: Sweet Love in Bellingham

Airika and I were up in Bellingham a few weeks ago, and spent an afternoon photographing Briana and Paul's engagement session. They gave us a tour of Western Washington University, we walked the streets of old Fairhaven, and enjoyed a beautiful sunset at Boulevard Park. Thanks for a great time Briana and Paul, we can't wait for your wedding at Semiahmoo next June!

Kaite & Jon

Here's a quick preview from Katie and Jon's wedding in Poulsbo, WA this past weekend!

There's much more to share, so check back soon...

Gretchen & Josh: Married in Seattle

For Airika and I, one of the most important (and fun) parts about what we do is getting to know the bride and groom. When we have the chance to build a relationship with them, it gives them a sense of trust that helps us get the natural and authentic photos that we strive for. Even with that, we quite often show up at a wedding and know no one outside of the bride and groom. This is a big reason that we started doing rehearsal coverage. It not only gives us a chance to see the venue, check out the lighting, and get a feel for the flow of the day, but it allows us to document the interactions between the closest friends and family in a relaxed, fun, and intimate setting.

We were fortunate enough to have already met Gretchen's family--the bride's father Kim was Airika's former boss at Fuller Seminary, and a very influential mentor in her life. Knowing the family and some of the history leading up to Gretchen and Josh's rehearsal made the stories we heard even more meaningful, leading to more than our fair share of tears and laughter.

It has been an huge blessing to get to know Gretchen and Josh over the past few months--they have incredible hearts for the Lord and a strong desire to serve and love all the people they come in contact with. They give so much of themselves--whether through their jobs, their church, or their daily interactions with friends and family. You can't help but come away from a conversation with them feeling encouraged and energized. This probably had a little something to do with the crowded church and overflowing reception on their wedding day!

You can enjoy some of our favorite images from their rehearsal & wedding day below, or you can view their entire slideshow. Congratulations Gretchen and Josh!

During their engagement, Gretchen & Josh kept a traveling journal to share their hearts and thoughts with each other since they were living far apart. This journal, along with Gretchen's grandfather's devotional book, are pictured here.

I love that Gretchen & Josh set aside time to relax and pray with their entire wedding party and family before the ceremony. It's such a testimony to the things that are most important to them.

Gretchen & Josh's amazing vendors include:

Bridal Gown: La Belle Elaine's

Tux rental: Men's Wearhouse
Officiant(s): Kim Anderson, Becca Bruner, Andrea Kladder, Dean Kladder
Flowers: Linda Hand
Catering: UW Club
Cupcakes: Cupcake Royale

Photography: Airika & Gerald Pope, Gerald Pope Photography ;)

Hair and Makeup: Annie Fisher, Swoop Salon

Venue(s): Lake City Presbyterian Church, UW Club, Magnuson Park
Rings: Amber Hill, Green Lake Jewelers

Julie & Jeff's Vow Renewals: A Preview

This past Saturday, I had the incredible pleasure of meeting Julie and Jeff for the very first time. It was their first anniversary, and as they renewed their vows, I quickly realized that these are two of the most warm-hearted, loving, thoughtful, and romantic people I have ever met. After our short time together, I am deeply convinced that hanging out with these two is good for your marriage. Here's a small preview of the evening we shared together--more to come soon...

Lydia & Joao: A preview

Lydia & Joao were married a couple of weeks ago at a private residence in Agoura Hills, CA. At the end of the evening, Gerald and I lined up on opposite sides of the stairs for their departure. I was behind Lydia & Joao with a flash, while Gerald shot from the front and captured this image. Not only do I love the lighting, but all of the love and joy oozing out of it makes me smile!

If you were a guest at the wedding, click here to preregister and receive an email when all of Lydia & Joao's photos are available online.

Katie & Jonathan's Engagement

If you think planning a wedding is hard work, imagine trying to plan one from halfway around the world. Katie and Jonathan did just that, and were able plan their upcoming wedding in Poulsbo almost entirely through Skype! It has allowed them talk with all of their vendors (including us) face to face from Israel, and we are so grateful for their creativity in utilizing this great little invention. :)

These two live lives full of intentionality, generosity, and passion. They met in unique (and super cool) medical school program at the Ben Gurion University of the Negev Medical School for International Health in Israel. When we first talked with Katie, Jon was actually in Ethiopia for the developing country experience that is required as a part of their program. Katie plans to head to Nepal for her experience later this year. They celebrate their differences and find commonality in their love for life, each other, and their passion for serving others. We are delighted to have met them and couldn't be more excited to be photographing their wedding in a few weeks!

Airika

Brianna & Ryan: Semiahmoo Wedding Preview

Brianna and Ryan's wedding on Saturday was incredible! The Semiahmoo Resort really is a beautiful place to get married...and to spend the weekend. I think next time we might need to add on a few extra days to relax and take advantage of everything they have to offer!



You can register to see the rest of Brianna and Ryan's photos when they are ready by clicking here.

Congratulations Brianna and Ryan!